ParlorGet Parlor
Parlor is one purchase on the App Store that covers iPhone and iPad. Native Mac and Apple TV versions are not yet released. There are no in-app purchases and Family Sharing is on.
Availability
| Version | Status |
|---|---|
| iPhone and iPad | Available on the App Store |
| iPad app on Apple silicon Mac | Available; Apple labels it not verified for macOS |
| Native Mac | Not yet released |
| Native Apple TV | Not yet released |
Requirements
| Device | Minimum | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone | iOS 17 | Haptics on every touch button |
| iPad | iPadOS 17 | Hardware keyboards work out of the box |
| Apple TV | tvOS 17 | Native version not yet released; a controller is required |
| Mac | macOS 14 | Native version not yet released |
Parlor doesn't need any BIOS or system files for Game Boy, Game Boy Color, Game Boy Advance or Nintendo DS games. Nothing to find or download.
Download
Open the App Store and search for Parlor, or use the link on the home page. The native Apple TV version is not yet released.
The native Apple TV app is not yet released. These steps describe that version after release. If you already bought it on an iPhone or iPad, look under Purchased. There's nothing to configure: sign in to the same iCloud account and your library metadata, saves and save states appear on their own.
The native Mac version is not yet released. The following features describe that version. The Mac app is sandboxed: it only reads game files you open, drop onto the window, or choose in the file picker.
First launch
- Walk through the three welcome screens
They introduce the systems Parlor plays, how to add games on the device you're holding, and controllers and iCloud. Skip is in the corner if you've seen it before.
- Try the bundled games
Every library starts with free open-source homebrew games. They are real game files, so they are a great way to try touch controls, save states, filters and fast forward before adding your own games.
- Add your games
Tap + in the library. See Adding games for every path in, including archives and dropping files into the Parlor folder in Files.
- Pair a controller (optional, but recommended)
Touch controls are fine on a phone; a pad is better. Parlor works with DualSense, DualShock 4, Xbox Wireless, Switch Pro, 8BitDo, Backbone and any MFi controller. See Controllers.
What Parlor includes, and what it doesn't
- Included: the emulator, bundled open-source games, box art lookups, iCloud sync.
- Not included: commercial games, or any way to download them. Parlor plays files you already own, and never links to sites that distribute games.
- Not needed for GB, GBC, GBA or DS: BIOS or firmware files. Some 3DS files need keys from your own console.